Mayor Nutter vows to work towards securing 2014 cycling event

In a statement released Tuesday afternoon, Mayor Nutter expressed his commitment to working toward securing a major pro cycling event in 2014.

"While we are all greatly disappointed by the cancellation of the Philadelphia International Cycling Championship this year owing to the organizer's inability to secure a title sponsor, I want all who are devoted to cycling to know that we are committed to working with the very best promoters to develop a complete event in 2014 that will reestablish our city as a world-class cycling destination," Mayor Nutter said.

He added that the City is focusing its resources on increasing dedicated bike lanes on city streets and encouraging the greater use of bicycles for work and play.

"In 2014, we will be back with a premier international, professional cycling race, but we'll also be honoring the importance of the bicycle as a major form of transportation in the 21st Century."

U.S. Rep. Bob Brady will meet with race organizers and Manayunk leaders Friday to see if the race can be salvaged for 2013. The race had been held for the last 28 years, making it the longest-running professional road race in America. It had been scheduled for June 2.

"I want to be very clear about where we are headed," Mayor Nutter said. "We are a first class city and we deserve a first class pro cycling race that is fiscally sustainable and professionally administered. The City will engage in the appropriate due diligence, conferring with a wide range of people in the racing world to achieve that goal."

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